Tennessee Linebacker Arion Carter Declares for 2026 NFL Draft, Will Skip Music City Bowl
The All-SEC defender shifts to draft preparation, leaving Tennessee to rework its linebacker rotation for Illinois on Dec. 30.
Overview
- Carter announced his decision on social media, thanking Tennessee coaches, teammates and fans as he closed his college career.
- He is viewed as an early- to mid-round draft prospect following three seasons in Knoxville.
- In 2025 he logged 76 tackles, six tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in 10 games while managing foot injuries.
- His evaluation includes a breakout 2024 campaign and a freshman-year shoulder injury that cost him time in 2023.
- Tennessee is expected to turn to Edwin Spillman, Jeremiah Telander and freshmen Jadon Perlotte and Jaedon Harmon for bowl snaps against Illinois.